This year, PetSmart Charities is making a significant impact in the world of animal welfare by disbursing a remarkable $3 million in grants to community animal welfare organizations across the United States. As part of its dedicated efforts leading up to National Adoption Week, which takes place from March 23 to 29, 2026, the funds will be instrumental in preparing local shelters to present adoptable pets during in-store adoption events at PetSmart locations nationwide.
The grants will cater to the essential needs of animals awaiting adoption, including veterinary care, food, and enrichment, all aimed at ensuring that pets are healthy and ready for a loving home. Sadly, many shelters are currently overwhelmed, as highlighted in the latest Hill's Pet Nutrition State of Shelter Pet Adoption Report. The findings reveal that dogs are remaining longer in shelters, with larger breeds particularly in need of urgent adoption.
"Every year during National Adoption Week, I am inspired by the families who choose to adopt pets in need of homes," expressed Aimee Gilbreath, the president of PetSmart Charities. "This year, we are thrilled to channel $3 million into meaningful support for our shelter partners who tirelessly work to provide a safe haven for these animals and help them find loving families."
Adopting a pet not only saves lives but also enriches the lives of families ready to welcome furry companions into their homes. Through the assistance of PetSmart Charities and its partners, the mission is clear: to unite pets with caring families and reduce the strain on local animal shelters.
In collaboration with Hill's Pet Nutrition, PetSmart Charities aims to enhance the adoption experience. Hill's will provide starter kits for each new pet parent who adopts a cat, dog, or small animal during the event. These kits, featuring Hill's Science Diet products, are geared towards giving new pet owners the tools they need to ensure a healthy start for their adopted pets.
The National Adoption Week events provide a wonderful opportunity for potential pet owners to engage with a variety of animals available for adoption. Shelters from all over will participate, bringing dogs, cats, rabbits, and other small animals to nearly every PetSmart store across the U.S. and Puerto Rico. Adopters will have the chance to interact with these pets, with knowledgeable staff on hand to provide important information and resources about responsible pet ownership.
Details of the event are as follows:
- - Dates: March 23-29, 2026
- - Locations: Nearly every PetSmart store throughout the U.S. and Puerto Rico
In addition to the adoption events, those who are interested in supporting animal welfare can contribute to PetSmart Charities through donations. These contributions further aid pets in need and help sustain programs that focus on responsible pet ownership, affordable veterinary care, and emergency assistance for families facing crises.
PetSmart Charities has a long history of facilitating pet adoptions, connecting over 11 million pets with loving families since its inception. As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, it operates under a motto of commitment and accessibility, utilizing over 90% of donations for imperative operational needs while maintaining a Four-Star Rating from Charity Navigator.
Through this initiative, PetSmart Charities continually strives to elevate the welfare of animals, foster lasting connections between pets and families, and promote a future where every shelter animal finds a loving home. Their efforts are supplemented by PetSmart's robust retail presence, which offers pet care essentials and services, aligning perfectly with its philanthropic mission.
In collaboration with Hill's Pet Nutrition, PetSmart is committed to making adoption experiences enriching for both pets and their new human families. As National Adoption Week approaches, the community is encouraged to participate, whether through adoption, volunteering, or contributing to support the cause of animal welfare and the mission of fostering loving homes for every pet.